Hollywood Icon Robert Redford Bequeaths $5 Million to Cowboys’ Legacy Fund in Will, Representative Confirmd.

Dallas, TX – September 16, 2025

The Dallas Cowboys are joining the sports world and beyond in mourning the loss of Hollywood icon Robert Redford, who passed away at the age of 89 at his home in Sundance, Utah. In a heartfelt announcement, Redford’s representative not only confirmed his death but also revealed a special bequest: Redford has left $5 million to the Cowboys’ Legacy Fund, a tribute to his deep admiration for the team and a commitment to supporting the growth of community sports programs.

Redford’s representative stated: "We will deeply miss him. The family requests privacy. Robert devoted much of his life to celebrating resilience and creativity, and he wished his legacy to endure by supporting the team that captured his heart from its early days." The representative noted that the $5 million donation will be directed to the Cowboys’ charitable initiatives, including the Dallas Cowboys Foundation, to expand programs like the Character Playbook (focused on youth education and leadership) and community outreach efforts in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.

Best known as an Oscar-winning actor and director for classics like Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, The Sting, and All the President's Men, Redford’s influence stretched far beyond the silver screen. For many Cowboys fans, his story resonates with the team’s storied tradition of tenacity and excellence—values tied to the "America’s Team" identity. Few knew that Redford quietly followed the Cowboys since the 1970s, often cheering from afar and admiring their bold spirit, which echoed the heroic narratives he brought to life on screen.

This bequest aligns with the Cowboys’ history of community support. The Dallas Cowboys Foundation, established in 2000, has benefited from contributions like owner Jerry Jones’ efforts to fund local charities and events like the Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Campaign. With Redford’s $5 million, the fund will grow to enhance community football development, including youth clinics and health initiatives, ensuring the Cowboys continue to inspire future generations.

Cowboys players and coaching staff reflected on Redford’s passing before practice, emphasizing that his bequest reflects his lasting impact. "Legends like him remind us that legacy isn’t just about what you do on the field—it’s about how you lift up the community and inspire others to keep pushing," a team spokesperson said. Head Coach Brian Schottenheimer added: "We’re honored to receive this gift from a fan like Mr. Redford. It’ll help us build a stronger future for Cowboys football."

The Cowboys will hold a minute of silence to honor Redford before their next home game at AT&T Stadium, while also unveiling plans to utilize the donation in his memory. Both Dallas and the team are committed to turning Redford’s legacy into a driving force for growth, ensuring his resilient spirit lives on within the Cowboys community.